Donald Trump’s Pantomime United Nations

The New Yorker

by Ishaan Tharoor

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article discusses the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, held at the newly rebranded Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. The event was marked by excessive flattery from foreign dignitaries and U.S. officials, including a proposal to create a special award in Trump’s honor. Despite its ambitious goals, such as stabilizing Gaza and fostering international cooperation, the meeting raised concerns about its effectiveness and legitimacy. Promises of billions in funding and military personnel for an "international stabilization force" were made, but details on implementation remained unclear. The event also highlighted Trump's efforts to position himself at the center of global peace initiatives, potentially overshadowing traditional institutions like the United Nations. The Board of Peace’s charter avoids mentioning Gaza explicitly, leaving its mandate vague. While international organizations and the U.S. government have endorsed its stated goals, critics argue that Trump is attempting to create a body under his control, bypassing established multilateral frameworks. This shift reflects Trump's broader vision for reshaping global governance, prioritizing unilateral actions over collaborative efforts. The meeting also showcased Trump’s tendency to promote himself as a peacebuilder while simultaneously escalating tensions with Iran through military buildup and rhetoric. The article underscores the cultural significance of Trump’s actions in challenging traditional norms of international cooperation. By sidelining the United Nations and other established institutions, Trump is attempting to redefine global leadership on his terms. However, the lack of clarity and practical steps from the Board of Peace raises doubts about its ability to deliver tangible results. The event highlights a broader cultural shift toward questioning multilateralism and embracing alternative forms of global governance, with uncertain implications for international stability. This summary captures the key points: Trump’sBoard of Peace meeting was filled with excessive praise but lacked concrete plans, raising questions about its effectiveness and legitimacy. The event reflects Trump's desire to centralize control over global peace efforts, potentially undermining traditional institutions. Readers interested in culture will find this relevant as it examines how Trump’s actions challenge conventional norms and redefine leadership on the international stage.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/21/2026